Twelve year old Ester 'Tugs' Button is about to experience the most unforgettable summer in her young life. Growing up in a small Iowa community in the late 1920s, Tugs has not had many adventures. In fact, up to now her life has been pretty much a ho-hum affair.

That will all change, though, when the likeable tomboy finds a new friend, gets her first camera, and unearths a scheme to cheat some locals out of their hard earned cash.

When Aggie Millhouse invites Tugs to be her partner in the annual Independence Day three-legged race, the little girl finds she's got a new friend who is one of the most popular girls in the town.

Not only do they win the race, but Tugs' 4th of July essay gets a blue ribbon and she also wins a new camera in the day's raffle. With her confidence bolstered, the little girl engages in a little detective work when she thinks there is something fishy about a stranger's scheme to launch a village newspaper.

Sure enough, Tugs' instincts are correct and she discovers the affable stranger is really an accomplished confidence man who is wanted in a number of states for his scams.

Children old enough to read a full length chapter book will enjoy meeting this appealing little girl and her remarkable friends and family. Tugs Button is a spunky youngster whose memorable summer makes for a delightful and highly entertaining short novel.

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